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Early Bird Registration open for Master Gardener ‘Foundations in Gardening’ Course
master gardener

University of Wisconsin Extension has announced that early bird registration for the 2026 Master Gardener class “Foundations in Gardening” will be open from July 13 to August 9. The early bird rate is $299 and regular registration rate is $349. Note that registration may close early if the course reaches capacity before August 24.

The course runs from Sept. 6 to Dec. 12 and is self-study and flexible to meet your schedule. Participants will also have access to online course materials through August 31, 2027. This is an introductory course where you learn key concepts for selecting, growing, and maintaining plants — from trees to houseplants to vegetables (and everything in between).

By successfully completing the introductory courses and the on-boarding program, you can join your county’s Master Gardener association. Green County Master Gardener Association welcomes new members and encourages everyone with an interest in horticulture and volunteering in their community to take this course.

Several scholarship opportunities are available to qualified participants. UW Extension offers scholarships to qualifying individuals enrolling in Foundations in Gardening 2026 who intend to register for On-boarding 2027 to enter the Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program. $100 scholarships for Foundations in Gardening (bringing the course fee down to $199 + optional add ons) and free registration for On-boarding 2027 (Step 2 of becoming a Wisconsin Master Gardener, $100 value).

For those only taking the Foundations in Gardening, $100.00 scholarships are offered (bringing the course fee down to $199 plus optional add-ons).

Green County Master Gardener Association also offers up to 5 scholarships to new members taking the Level 1 Master Gardener On-boarding lite course. Reimbursement will be given to the individuals upon proof of completion of the course by passing the written exam.

For more information, visit UW Extension’s foundations in gardening website at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/foundations-in-gardening/ or call Extension Green County at 608-328-9440.